Moong Dal Cheela Recipe : A Healthy and Tasty Delight

Moong dal cheela is a popular and healthy Indian snack. In this blog you’ll know how to make moong dal cheela, it’s often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal. Made with moong dal (green gram), it is a high-protein, gluten-free, and easily digestible dish. Moong dal cheela is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and can be served with various chutneys or yogurt. It is a great way to start your day or satisfy your hunger pangs in a healthy manner. In this blog, we will take you through a detailed recipe of moong dal cheela, along with its health benefits, and also explore different variations of this nutritious dish. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein breakfast or a light snack, moong dal cheela will surely be a delicious addition to your menu!

Moong Dal Cheela Benefits

High in Protein : Moong dal, the main ingredient in cheela, is an excellent source of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it plays a key role in the body’s immune function. Moong dal cheela provides a significant amount of protein, making it an ideal meal for vegetarians and those looking to boost their protein intake without relying on meat.

Rich in Fiber : Moong dal is packed with dietary fiber, which helps in digestion and promotes gut health. It aids in preventing constipation and helps maintain healthy bowel movements. 

Low in Fat and Calories : Moong dal is low in fat and calories, which makes moong dal cheela a great option for weight management. When prepared without too much oil, it makes for a light and healthy snack that won’t contribute to excess calorie intake. It also helps in maintaining a healthy heart, as it supports good cholesterol levels.

Improves Digestion : Moong dal contains natural enzymes that aid digestion and prevent bloating and indigestion. It is easy to digest and doesn’t put too much strain on the stomach, which is why it’s often recommended during recovery from illness or when someone has a sensitive stomach.

Ingredients for Moong Dal Ka Cheela Recipe :

1 cup moong dal (yellow split gram or whole green moong dal)

1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

1 small tomato, finely chopped (optional)

1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional for spice)

1/4 cup coriander leaves, chopped

1/2 tsp cumin seeds

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

1/4 tsp red chili powder

Salt to taste

Water as required

Oil or ghee for cooking

Instructions for Moong ki dal ka cheela Recipe:

Soak Moong Dal:  Wash the moong dal thoroughly and soak it in enough water for at least 3-4 hours or overnight for better fermentation. This softens the dal and makes it easier to blend.

Blend the Moong Dal: After soaking, drain the water from the moong dal. Transfer the dal to a blender and add a small amount of water. Blend it into a smooth batter, similar to pancake batter. You can make it slightly thick or runny based on your preference. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can leave the dal a little coarse.

Prepare the Cheela Batter: Transfer the blended batter to a mixing bowl. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and coriander leaves to the batter. Mix everything together thoroughly. 

If the batter is too thick, add a little more water to adjust the consistency.

Cook the Cheela: Heat a non-stick tawa or frying pan on medium heat. Once hot, add a little oil or ghee. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the tawa and spread it out evenly into a circular shape, similar to how you make a pancake.

Drizzle a little oil around the edges and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy. Flip the cheela and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Repeat the process for the rest of the batter.

Serve: Once the cheela are ready, serve them hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or yogurt for added flavor. You can also pair them with a side of salad for a more balanced meal.

Different Types of Moong Dal Cheela

While the basic green green moong dal cheela is simple and delicious, there are many variations you can try by adding different ingredients. Below are some exciting variations of moong dal cheela

Vegetable Moong Dal Cheela Adding vegetables like grated carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to the batter makes the cheela even more nutritious. The vegetables add flavor and enhance the vitamin and mineral content of the dish. Simply grate or chop your favorite veggies and mix them into the batter before cooking.

Cheese Moong Dal Cheela For a cheesy twist, you can sprinkle grated cheese over the cooked cheela before folding it in half. As the cheese melts, it gives a rich and indulgent flavor to the otherwise healthy cheela. You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any cheese of your choice.

Savoury Moong Dal Pancakes with Spices : You can experiment with adding various spices to the batter to give it a unique flavor. For instance, try adding cumin powder, ajwain (carom seeds), or garam masala for an aromatic and flavorful cheela. These spices elevate the taste and bring a rich Indian essence to the dish.

 Stuffed Moong Dal Cheela : Stuffing your cheela with a filling of spiced potatoes, paneer (cottage cheese), or sautéed mushrooms can make it a more filling meal. To do this, prepare the stuffing separately, cook the cheela on one side, and once it’s partially cooked, add the stuffing. Fold the cheela over the filling and cook it until the stuffing is heated through.

Sweet Moong Dal Cheela :  A variation for those with a sweet tooth, sweet moong dal cheela is made by adding a touch of jaggery or sugar to the batter, along with cardamom powder. It’s like a sweet pancake that can be served with honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Moong dal cheela is a versatile and healthy dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations mentioned above, this recipe offers a wholesome and tasty option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and various other nutrients, it’s a great way to stay energized throughout the day. Moong dal cheela is not only delicious but also easy to make and a fantastic option for those looking to eat healthy while enjoying Indian flavors. Give it a try and explore how you can incorporate this nutritious dish into your regular meal planning!